The Philadelphian
Book • 1956
The novel begins with the emigration of a poor Irish girl in 1857 and spans four generations, culminating with her grandson, an ambitious young defense lawyer, in one of the most compelling courtroom scenes ever written.
It explores themes of social ambition, irony, and the challenges of breaching elite Philadelphia society, from humble beginnings through clever legal triumphs and marriages into wealth.
It explores themes of social ambition, irony, and the challenges of breaching elite Philadelphia society, from humble beginnings through clever legal triumphs and marriages into wealth.
Mentioned by
Mentioned in 0 episodes
Mentioned as a play that Baldwin attended previews for, with Sidney Poitier giving him one of his house seats.
Nicholas Boggs, "Baldwin: A Love Story" (FSG, 2025)
